The Neat Walk-In Shower Alternative That's Redefining Bathroom Design

Showers should be a place for relaxation, self-care, and, of course, getting clean. For a long time, walk-in showers were considered one of the best options. However, walk-in showers come with downsides that might outweigh the benefits for some homeowners. A newer alternative you might want to consider is the shower pod or capsule. The name might sound a bit silly or sci-fi, but shower pods are actually pretty simple.

A shower pod or capsule is a completely contained shower. Rather than being built into your bathroom, the capsule has its own set of walls and floor. This makes installation much easier, since you don't need to worry about replacing your existing floor or tiling part of your bathroom wall. An improperly installed walk-in shower might have leaks where the walls or floor aren't lined up correctly, but since a shower pod's walls and floor are a single piece, this is less likely to happen. All you need is enough room to fit the pod and a way to connect it to your pipes. You can purchase shower pods outright to replace your existing shower, or rent one for a limited time while your shower is being repaired.

If you're looking for a new shower, a shower pod or capsule might be a good fit. They come with a lower risk of leaks, and you don't need to worry about altering your floor or walls to protect them from water damage. Shower pods are often smaller than a typical shower, making them a good fit if you're low on space. Since they only need access to your pipes for water to flow in and drain out, there's also more flexibility in where you place your shower capsule. The lack of tile and grout (and smaller size) means they're often easier to clean as well, since you don't need to rely on fussy grout sealants or homemade tile floor cleaners to get the job done.

However, they aren't right for everyone. If you're looking for a luxurious master bathroom shower, then a shower pod probably won't cut it. You may also want to look elsewhere if you need something customized to your specific needs or space. For example, not all shower pods are wheelchair accessible, although some may be. Additionally, if you have an unusually shaped space, a capsule might fit awkwardly in it. Aesthetically, shower pods have limited customization options. If you want your shower to perfectly match the rest of your bathroom, a custom shower that can be built from a wider range of materials and colors will likely be a better fit.